I must say, it's not often that a simple concept gets me this jazzed. I haven't even read the book, and I feel compelled to share it with you based solely on that concept. I've already contacted the publisher for review copies and an interview with the author. Here's some info on the book directly from the publisher's site, and I'll let you determine whether my excitement is justified or I'm just nuts... then again, the 2 are not mutually exclusive.

Your computer won't respond when you yell at it. Why not learn to talk to your computer in its own language? Whether you want to write games, start a business, or you're just curious, learning to program is a great place to start. Plus, programming is fun!

Hello World! provides a gentle but thorough introduction to the world of computer programming. It's written in language a 12-year-old can follow, but anyone who wants to learn how to program a computer can use it. Even adults. Written by Warren Sande and his son, Carter, and reviewed by professional educators, this book is kid-tested and parent-approved.

You don't need to know anything about programming to use the book. But you should know the basics of using a computer--e-mail, surfing the web, listening to music, and so forth. If you can start a program and save a file, you should have no trouble using this book.

WHAT'S INSIDE:

- Makes programming fun and easy to learn - Explains concepts in clear language—no "geek speak" - Lots of pictures, cartoons, and fun examples to hold your interest - Complete set of fully-worked questions and examples make it great for use by yourself or in a classroom

Though the concepts and ideas presented apply to any programming language, Hello World! uses the easy to learn Python programming language. Python is free, and is available for different platforms, including Windows, Linux, and Mac. Hello World! covers all the basic concepts of computer programming, including memory, looping, decisions, input and output, data structures, graphics, and many more. It then applies them to fun, interesting topics like computer graphics, game programming, and simulations.

Hello World! makes computer programming accessible and fun for kids, which is essential in today's hi-tech world. It can be used at home or in a classroom setting.

About the Authors

Warren Sande is an Electronic Systems Engineer who uses Python (and other languages) in his work, and also uses it to help teach his son about computers and programming. He holds a degree in Electronic Systems Engineering from the University of Regina, Saskatchewan, as well as a Diploma in Communication Arts, specializing in Broadcasting, from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. He has taught introductory software courses to computer novices. He has written many readable and user-friendly technical documents in his engineering work.

Carter Sande is a bright, curious, energetic, and thoughtful boy who loves computers, playing the piano, bouncing on the trampoline, and Pokemon. He has been playing and experimenting with computers from a young age.

WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING

“In an unusual twist, the authors chose to use Python as their computer language. In this they made an outstanding decision...Beginners learn best with a kind of language called an interpreter—that allows you to experiment interactively, and Python is a fine choice. Plus the Python language is similar enough to other languages so that a kid who learns it will be able to move to others if necessary. ”—Dan Appleman, Examiner.com Review

“Hello World! Programming for Children and Other Beginners is a clear and easy to digest voyage through the beginnings of programming with Python. The ease of navigation is supported through the balanced teaming of an author experienced in programming and a novice that isn't afraid to ask the questions that most of us would likely let pass accompanied by a glazed look. The core elements of Python programming are clearly explained in terms and concepts that anyone, at just about any age, can understand. ”—James Wagner, Bucket-O-Cool

“Hello World! helps challenge young people to take on technology, making it fun, without dumbing-down the adventure.”—David Brin, author of The Postman and The Transparent Society

“I think this is a great book that fills a real niche—I don't know of any other programming book on the market that targets kids. What's amazing is that it has set its sights so high, and yet manages to meet its goals. I think it would be great to see this book promoted as a way of teaching programming in primary schools. In the meanwhile if you know 12+ [year old] kids interested in computers, give them an opportunity to develop a fascinating hobby and get them this book.”—Noel O'Boyle, Noel O'Blog

“It is a book in the spirit of those old BASIC programming books. It covers the fundamentals of programming using the Python language and has game programs that you can get started with including a lunar landing game and a ski-free clone. If you want to learn programming or teach it to a kid, this is your book.”—Josh Cronemeyer, Senior Consultant, ThoughtWorks

I already pre-ordered it. Even though it will be more than a decade for my little guy to be 12. I wish I could get some idea from this book on how to introduce computer in early childhood. I read every Montessori book I could get from Amazon, but she lived in a time with no TV and computer and I couldn't find guidance from her books. A lot of scientists believe TV is bad, especially waching TV for a long period of time in early childhood can potentially do damage to development. It seems computer is more evil than TV, with virus, phishing, criminals exploring young kids and etc. I am trying to find a way to raise a kid enjoy and excel in the technology instead of indulge and be consumed by computers.